Keeping track of your health is one of the most important things that you can do. Blood tests are a critical tool that can help you do it.

Not only do they provide you with an in-depth analysis of your bodily functions, but they can also give you clues as to what you need to do to improve certain aspects of your health. Here are the five essential blood tests that you should do annually:.

1. The Complete Blood Count (CBC)

A complete blood count or CBC is one of the most common blood tests that doctors order. It measures several components of your blood, including:.

Red blood cells
White blood cells
Platelets
Hemoglobin
Hematocrit

These measurements can give your doctor an idea of whether you have any conditions like anemia or infections. They can also provide insights into your overall blood health and help your doctor determine if you have any health risks.

2. Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP)

Another important blood test that is often done annually is the comprehensive metabolic panel or CMP. This test measures various substances in your blood, including:.

Blood glucose levels (sugar levels)
Electrolytes (sodium, potassium, and chloride)
Liver enzymes (ALT and AST)
Blood urea nitrogen (BUN)
Creatinine

These measurements can give doctors information about your body’s function. High results may indicate that there are issues with your kidneys, liver, or blood sugar levels.

3. Lipid Panel

A lipid panel is a blood test that measures different types of fats and cholesterol in your blood, including:.

Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) or “bad” cholesterol
High-density lipoprotein (HDL) or “good” cholesterol
Triglycerides (a type of fat)

These measurements can give you and your doctor an idea of whether you have any risks for heart disease or stroke.

4. Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone (TSH) Test

The TSH test measures the amount of thyroid-stimulating hormone in your blood. This hormone is produced by your pituitary gland and is responsible for regulating your thyroid gland.

If your TSH levels are too high or too low, it can indicate that there are problems with your thyroid gland. This, in turn, can lead to issues with your metabolism, mood, energy levels, and more.

5. Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) Test

The HbA1c test is a blood test that measures your average blood sugar levels over the past 2-3 months. This test is an important tool in monitoring diabetes and pre-diabetes.

It can help you and your doctor determine if your blood sugar levels are under control or whether you need to make changes to your diet or medication regimen.

Conclusion

Taking care of your health involves more than just eating right and exercising. Regular blood tests can help you stay on top of your health and identify potential problems before they become serious.

Talk to your doctor about which blood tests are best for you, and remember to get them done annually.